It’s always cool to see a classic piece of American muscle get updated with modern components and power while maintaining its classic looks. Ringbrothers has unveiled a resto-mod 1968 Mercury Cougar that features the Ford Coyote 5.0-liter V-8 from a modern Mustang under the hood. The V-8 engine is paired with a 10-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission taken from the F-150 Raptor in this application.
Before getting its modern heart, the classic Cougar had a complete frame-off restoration. Restoration included new floor pans and transmission tunnel along with performance suspension, brakes, and custom wheels. The car got a fresh coat of green paint and all sorts of new shiny bits on the outside.
Ringbrothers says the car was unable to make the SEMA show because it wasn’t held due to the coronavirus pandemic. They do hope to unveil the car to the public soon. The car is incredibly beautiful and should perform very well to boot.
Modern Powertrain and Performance
The Ford Coyote 5.0-liter V-8 engine is a marvel of modern engineering, known for its robust performance and reliability. This engine, commonly found in the latest Ford Mustangs, brings a significant power boost to the classic Cougar. The 10-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission from the F-150 Raptor ensures that the power is delivered smoothly and efficiently, providing a driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined. This combination of modern powertrain components not only enhances the car’s performance but also improves fuel efficiency and drivability, making it a perfect blend of classic aesthetics and modern technology.
Comprehensive Restoration Process
The frame-off restoration process undertaken by Ringbrothers is a testament to their commitment to quality and attention to detail. This meticulous process involves completely disassembling the car down to its frame, allowing for a thorough inspection and repair of every component. New floor pans and a transmission tunnel were installed to accommodate the modern powertrain, ensuring structural integrity and optimal performance. The performance suspension and brakes were upgraded to handle the increased power and provide a smoother, more controlled ride. Custom wheels were also added, enhancing both the car’s appearance and its handling capabilities.
The fresh coat of green paint and the addition of new shiny bits on the exterior give the car a stunning visual appeal. The paint job is not just about aesthetics; it also provides protection against rust and corrosion, ensuring the car’s longevity. The attention to detail in the restoration process is evident in every aspect of the car, from the precision of the bodywork to the quality of the interior finishes.
Challenges and Future Plans
The coronavirus pandemic posed significant challenges for the automotive industry, and Ringbrothers was no exception. The cancellation of the SEMA show, a premier automotive specialty products trade event, meant that the car could not be showcased to the public as initially planned. Despite this setback, Ringbrothers remains optimistic about unveiling the car to enthusiasts and potential buyers soon. The anticipation surrounding this resto-mod Cougar is palpable, and it is expected to draw significant attention once it is finally revealed.
The Ringbrothers’ resto-mod 1968 Mercury Cougar is a remarkable fusion of classic design and modern engineering. The comprehensive restoration process, combined with the integration of a powerful and efficient powertrain, results in a car that is not only visually stunning but also performs exceptionally well. This project exemplifies the potential of resto-mods to breathe new life into classic cars, preserving their heritage while enhancing their performance and drivability for modern roads.
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